Preview: Bolton v Walsall

Bolton take a brief distraction from finance and politics tomorrow when they play some actual football. Walsall, the first side in the league to beat us this season, are the visitors.

Wanderers got a point at an in-form MK Dons last time out, while the Saddlers have improved in the five months since we last met, sat in 11th place.

For all the crap around the club this week, it would be good to just give the team on the pitch a bit of backing this weekend.

Vital Quotes:

'Tomorrow is a big day for us on the football pitch. I want the supporters to really get behind us.'

Fair point Parky. Do what the man says

Bolton Wanderers Team News:

Lawrie Wilson is out, possibly until the end of the season with his hamstring injury, so there is massive question who plays at right back. Andy Taylor should be fine to play after coming off last weekend.

Player to watch: Mystery Right Back

Wilson's injury and Buxton's continued absence mean we don't have a recognised senior right back. The least disruptive option would be to play Andy Taylor there and keep Dean Moxey in at left back.

Derik could go there but that would take him out of central midfield where is effective. Ditto Josh Vela.

David Wheater could go there, but that would mean Dervite would have to go in, or we could get Spooner from the academy until we sign a trialist.

Walsall Team News:

I can't find team news, but Walsall have switched to a 3-5-2 of late which has yielded good results.

The likes of Jason McCarthy and Florent Cuvelier should feature prominently.

Player to watch: Jason McCarthy

While we're struggling to field a right back, our opponents are not. McCarthy has been in good form of late, scoring three in four games, and became the first non-Wanderers player to win a PFA League One Fans Player of the Month gong the other day.

Match Facts & Stats

Walsall are unbeaten in five league games. Bolton have no win in four.

Walsall won the reverse fixture 1-0 back in September.

Statto is down, but I believe Walsall's last visit to the Reebok was on September 11 2001, as we won a Worthington Cup tie in extra time. It was my birthday.

Match Prediction:

Walsall are in good form, we are not. Can see us dropping points again and a tetchy atmosphere if we concede early. 1-1